Discovering the Hidden Power of Sri Lankan Cinnamon

Cinnamon, a well-known spice, offers numerous health benefits. Scientists decided to explore the medicinal potential of seven native Ceylon cinnamon species from Sri Lanka. They focused on the essential oils, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. The team collected bark and leaf samples from various Cinnamomum species. They extracted essential oils and other compounds, then analyzed these extracts. Surprisingly, the bark of Sri Vijaya and C. rivulorum, as well as the leaves of Sri Vijaya and C. sinharajaense, showed strong antioxidant effects. Sri Gemunu had the highest cinnamaldehyde content at 61. 63% in its bark, while C. sinharajaense bark contained 59. 19%. The leaves of Sri Gemunu were rich in eugenol, reaching 91. 45%. C. zeylanicum and its variants displayed the highest antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Wild species like C. sinharajaense and C. rivulorum hold promise for future medicinal uses. These findings suggest that further research could unlock more health benefits from these cinnamon species.